Physicist Stephen Hawking has died, a spokesperson for the family told the BBC early Wednesday morning. He was 76 years old.
Hawking was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, when he was 21 in 1963 and was given two years to live. The British physicist went on to earn his Ph.D. from the University of Cambridge, author seven books and co-author more than a dozen others. Hawking fought for disability rights and advocated for universal health care.
Hawkings’ children released a statement following their father’s passing:
We are deeply saddened that our beloved father passed away today. He was a great scientist and an extraordinary man whose work and legacy will live on for many years. His courage and persistence with his brilliance and humour inspired people across the world. He once said, ‘It would not be much of a universe if it wasn’t home to the people you love.’ We will miss him forever.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
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